Monday, 27 January 2014

I was recently sent Volumizing Lavender Conditioner from the natural brand, Jason, to review. Specially designed to add body to fine and limp hair, Jason Volumizing Lavender Conditioner appealed to me because I have fine hair, albeit a lot of it, meaning that I'm on a constant quest to achieve that oh-so-coveted big hair.

The plastic packaging is very basic in appearance and I have to confess that it probably wouldn't appeal to me if I saw it on a shop shelf. Having said this, it's functional with a flip top lid on the base of the bottle.

As the name suggests, Jason Volumizing Lavender Conditioner contains Lavender and Evening Primrose extracts to strengthen and fortify hair- which is important for fine hair which can break easily- along with Wheat Protein Amino Acids to boost volume and moisturising Jojoba Seed Oil. It is reassuringly free from Parabens, SLS and Phthalates.

The conditioner itself has a thick cream consistency with a pleasant lavender scent, which made it enjoyable to use in the evenings when washing my hair. However, I appreciate that there are some who don't like lavender & whilst the scent is definitely noticeable during use, I couldn't detect it once I'd dried & styled my hair.

Despite the thick formula, I found Jason Volumizing Lavender Conditioner relatively easy to rinse out. My hair was left feeling soft and silky and I was impressed at how shiny it looked. What's more, it was volumised, living up to the claims, with added movement without being weighed down. The only downside is that when I used the conditioner over a period of time, I started to notice product build up which weighed my hair down and for this reason, I personally wouldn't repurchase it. However, it's worth pointing out that I wash my hair daily and those with a less regular routine may not experience this.

I was impressed at the value for money that Jason Volumizing Lavender Conditioner offers. A little goes a long way so the generously sized bottle will last and last. It's very affordable at just £6.29 for a huge 454g bottle.

Sunday, 19 January 2014

At this time of year we're all pinching the pennies and whilst the bathroom scales might be showing one or two annoying extra pounds, our wallets are feeling frustratingly light. With that in mind, it seems fitting that the theme of this week's The Weekend Feature is Budget Beauty, with a look at some of my favourite tried & trusted drugstore makeup finds, all under £10.

Rimmel London Wake Me Up Concealer
Just over a fiver at £5.49, this affordable concealer is one of the best I've found for use under the eyes, outperforming many of the higher end versions I've tried. The pigmented formula offers an opaque, full coverage making it easy to conceal dark under eye circles, whilst the yellow tone counteracts purple shadows. What's more, the brightening properties help to fake the appearance of eight hours' sleep. It also contains vitamins and peptides to help keep the delicate eye area moisturised. A little goes a long way so it really is great value. Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder
At £7.99, Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder leaves sufficient change from a tenner to treat yourself to a coffee or magazine. The packaging looks and feels cheap but look past that and the product inside is worthy of your pennies.
It's a finely milled powder which feels far more expensive than the wallet friendly price tag would suggest. I love that doesn't leave skin looking cakey (ditch the free powder puff and apply with a fluffy powder brush instead) or overly powdered. It's worth noting that this adds a hint of colour to the face and the shade range, which comprises five options, runs a little dark. The shade "020 Light" works on my MAC NC15-20 skin so long as I buff it in. Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder doesn't claim to be an oil control powder but is a fantastic, everyday setting powder. The fact that I've "hit pan" on it is testament to how well-loved this is.

Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blusher
I put off investing in this blogger favourite for some time as I wasn't convinced that the small pot of blush would be worth the money. At £6.99, it's affordable but is far from the cheapest item at the drugstore and the unassuming plastic packaging looks and feels cheap. However, I'm so pleased that I finally tried it and can't believe that I waited so long as it's one of the best cream blushers I've come across. As with most cream blushers, it's easily applied with fingers, negating the need for brushes and helps to add a natural looking, youthful and dewy flush to cheeks. I've also been impressed at how long wearing it is, particularly considering the cream formula. My go-to is the shade "Soft Pink" which is universally flattering. Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr Cream Gel Eyeshadow
At £4.99, Maybelline's Color Tattoo eyeshadows are one of the best value drugstore buys in my opinion. They're hugely popular and deservedly so. Easy to use, the colours are pigmented and blend effortlessly. They live up to the long-wearing claims, staying in place with no creasing throughout the day. My favourite shade is "On and On Bronze", known as "Bad to the Bronze" in the US. It's a wearable metallic that works well day or night, worn alone or as a base under powder shadows. I can't recommend these highly enough.

L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow
Another great eyeshadow option from the drugstore, L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadows cost £6.99 each. These highly pigmented shadows have a unique texture, akin to a pressed pigment. They're impressively long-wearing, high quality and are reminiscent of more expensive eyeshadows.

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner
Coming in under £5 at just £3.99, Rimmel's eyeliners are often said to be dupes for NARS' Longwear Eyeliners. Personally, I'm not convinced that the quality is quite comparable to NARS but it is above and beyond most drugstore options. Available in seven shades, my favourite is "Nude" which is the perfect fleshtone for use on the waterline to help brighten the eyes. Furthermore, such shades are notoriously difficult to find especially when on a budget. The liners are sufficiently creamy that they glide on without dragging at the delicate eye area, are pigmented and relatively long-wearing.

Maybelline Volume Express The Falsies Flared Mascara
Maybelline arguably reign supreme when it comes to drugstore mascaras and my personal favourite is The Falsies Flared. With a traditional bristle wand that's curved into a spoon shape, it helps to build volume without clumping and gives the fluttery, feminine lashes that I crave. Despite not opting for the waterproof formula, I've found it to be impressively long-wearing and doesn't flake or smudge throughout the day. What's more, it holds a curl like no other. At just £7.99, it's affordable enough that you might actually stick to the 3 month replacement rule too!

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter
Revlon Lip Butters are one of my all time favourite lip formulas, regardless of budget so the fact that these hydrating lip tints are just £7.99 each makes them all the more impressive. Admittedly, some of the lighter shades can be a little hit and miss but overall, I love them and have repurchased time and time again. There's an extensive colour range to choose from, with my favourites being "Berry Smoothie" and "Peach Parfait". I love that Lip Butters are sufficiently sheer that they can be applied without a mirror but can be built up for a more intense look. Highly recommended.

Rimmel London Apocalips
Another fantastic buy from Rimmel, the Apocalips launch in 2013 was highly anticipated and didn't disappoint. Known as Show Off Glosses in the US, these highly pigmented liquid lipsticks provide an opaque slick of colour and lacquer-like shine with a subtle scent in just one sweep of the sponge tipped applicator. There's a wide range of colours to choose from and at just £6.49 each, they're affordable enough to justify picking up a couple of shades.

Barry M Gelly Polish
Barry M Nail Polishes have long been a favourite thanks to their affordable price tag and on-trend colours but the introduction of the new Gelly Polishes really made me sit up and take notice of the brand once again. At just £3.99, Barry M Gelly Polishes are a fantastic buy and one of the best drugstore formulas I've come across. There's a wide range of shades available but my personal favourite is the effortlessly chic "Lychee", a wearable nude that goes with everything. I love the high shine, gel like finish but the reason that I really love these polishes is the long-wearing formula, which has been known to last on my nails for up to a week without chipping.

Wednesday, 15 January 2014

I'm not the best sleeper so any products which boast calming benefits appeal to me and as such, I was intrigued to try out the recently launched Beauty Sleep Body Butter from Neal's Yard Remedies.

The packaging is chic and not at all worthy, despite the eco credentials of the product which is 85% organic and free from mineral oils, parabens, phthalates and propylene glycol. As with most body butters, it was presented in a tub and whilst I generally dislike such packaging, I recognise that the rich formulations of certain products means that there's sometimes no other option.

The scent of Neal's Yard Remedies Beauty Sleep Body Butter is incredible and for me, makes it worth the money despite having a hefty price tag of £22.50 for 200g. It's a powerful aromatherapeutic blend of clary sage, ylang ylang, patchouli & cypress and the sensual, woodsy scent lingers on skin. I found it to be reminiscent of a spa experience.

However, the formula was a huge let down- it took a long time to be absorbed into the skin and as I was exhaustedly preparing for bed, I started to wonder "maybe this is why it makes you sleep- after the effort of massaging it in!". It almost felt like trying to rub in a white paste or wax and I can't remember the last time that I found a product so difficult to absorb. Admittedly (& unsurprisingly) there was an improvement when used after exfoliating but it still took some effort.

I was surprised because, unlike some body butters which are almost like a solid balm, the texture was more akin to a rich cream with a base of sunflower seed oil, shea & cocoa butters and aloe vera so I'd have expected it to sink into skin easily. I suspect that the difficulty I experienced is down to the inclusion of beeswax, the 8th ingredient in the list.

The plus point was that when it was finally absorbed, my skin didn't feel overly greasy as I often find is the case with body butters. There was a residue on my skin but it felt velvety smooth rather than greasy.

The difficulty I experienced in working with this product would put me off repurchasing, despite the fantastic scent. I really wanted to like this but was sadly disappointed & wouldn't recommend it.

Tuesday, 14 January 2014

I'm a big fan of Rodial, despite their sometimes controversial approaches and have recently been using the SPF15 Glam Balm Lip, a lip balm designed for dehydrated lips that boasts the inclusion of stem cells.

The lip balm is presented in a box which contains the sleek lip balm tube. I liked the appearance of the tube which has a matte finish in contrast to the brushed metallic lid but I noticed that it felt very lightweight, as though it didn't contain very much product. Having said this, I appreciated the functionality of the slanted tip so that I could apply it directly on my lips on the go, without having to apply it in an unhygienic way with my fingers.

Rodial SPF15 Glam Balm Lip has a strong rose scent, which I personally enjoyed. It has a lightweight texture and feels emollient on the lips, leaving a shiny finish without stickiness. I was pleased to note the inclusion of SPF15.

I was surprised at how little product there is for the money, with the tube containing just 7ml despite the hefty price tag of £17. Whilst it's a very pleasant product, I'm not sure that I could justify a repurchase for that reason.

Monday, 13 January 2014

I'm delighted to kick of the 2014 series of Blogger Makeup Bags with a peek inside Farzana's makeup bag from Beauty by Eff Blog. Farzana's blog features reviews, brand overviews and shopping list inspiration so it's definitely worth a look and I couldn't wait to see the contents of her makeup bag. Over to you Farzana...

Firstly, I want to thank Skin Deep Beauty Blogger for giving me the opportunity to guest post on her blog!

Over the past couple of months I've been travelling quite a bit with work and visiting family so I've had a bit of a capsule makeup bag.

My makeup bag was a present from a friend of mine. I absolutely adore it because it holds its shape so doesn't take up a lot of space when travelling, yet manages to fit in everything I need!

Base
I adore the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer as it is oil-free and keeps my combination/ oily skin matte for the longest time. It has a silky finish and helps makeup stay on longer.
I've gone back to MAC Matchmaster Foundation since the colder months have hit. I like that it's buildable so depending on if my skin is behaving, I can wear it quite sheer or go for fuller coverage.
I have gone on and on about Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer on my blog. It's just great for under eye brightening and blemishes. It's amazing value for money too.
To powder, I have been using MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder. It doesn't give a lot of coverage and dusted on lightly, doesn't look cakey either. Great for touching up on the go.
I never use the sponges that come with compacts. I got this retractable Clinique Powder Brush with my Clinique Blended Face Powder. The powder itself is not travel friendly but this brush is great as you can retract and put the cap on so your makeup bag is not full of residual powder from the brush!

Eyes
I love my shimmery eyeshadows and I love this Bourjois Color Edition 24h Eyeshadow in Kaki Cheri. It's just so beautiful and has a really nice cream to powder finish. No eye brushes required, sweep on the lids with your fingers and you're good to go!
Smashbox have won me over in the last year with their beautiful eye pencil formula. They're creamy soft, don't drag the skin and you can either smudge them for a smokey effect or go for a bold black line. The colour I use almost daily is Onyx.
Maybelline The Rocket Volume Mascara is another favourite. I have worn no other mascara since I tried this last summer. I have a detailed review on my blog.

Cheeks and LipsFor blusher, I've been using Illamasqua's Powder Blusher in Thrust. It is quite a deep magenta pink, with a matte finish. I like this colour for the colder, wintery months. It is VERY pigmented so you only need the tiniest amount. Because there is a lot going on makeup wise, I've been opting for a nude lip. I've been using quite a brown nude- MAC's Half n Half Lipstick. It's really moisturising and pigmented. It's of the usual high quality from MAC.
When on the go, I ensure I have tried and tested products so I'm never in a situation with products that just don't work. I hope you've enjoyed reading about my travel makeup bag.

Sunday, 12 January 2014

I've never been in a great believer in the New Year detox. It's cold outside and payday seems like an age away so it's hardly the time to punish yourself with a restrictive diet. Instead, indulge in a pampering session with a detox face mask. This week, I've rounded up 3 to try...

I've previously blogged about Omorovicza's Deep Cleansing Mask here. It was a rave review in which I described the mask as "the best deep cleansing mask I've ever used", a sentiment which still holds true today. Cooling upon application, this mud mask helps to soothe inflamed skin and reduce redness, resulting in a more refined skin tone. It's eye-wateringly expensive at £57 for 50ml but it's worth every penny in my opinion, thanks to the impressive results.

Heaven by Deborah Mitchell has been one of my favourite skincare brands for a number of years, with fantastic results driven products and the Deep Cleansing & Firming Mask is no exception. Containing river silt that's packed full of amino acids, the mask has been specially designed to draw out impurities from the skin.
Heaven by Deborah Mitchell Deep Cleansing & Firming Mask has a thick gel like texture which slightly disconcertingly, resembles green slime. It feels wonderfully cooling and soothing upon application and this sensation continues for the duration of the treatment. It also has a lavender scent which adds to the calming sensation. The mask sets onto the face, although it doesn't dry in the same way that some clay masks can. There's a tightening sensation but it's not uncomfortable. My skin was left looking smoother with fine lines appearing diminished. Whilst I wouldn't say that there was a dramatic difference to the redness in my skin, there was a noticeable improvement overall and I was impressed with the results, particularly as they remained noticeable for a couple of days following use. It's a great choice for those with adult acne as it helps to soothe and treat problem skin whilst having a subtle tightening effect and is available from just £12.70 for 15ml

A more recent discovery is Aromatherapy Associates Deep Cleanse Face Mask, £36 for 100ml. Unsurprisingly, I preferred the functional tube presentation of this mask compared with the jars of those aforementioned. I was impressed with the high concretion of clay in the ingredients list, particularly in comparison to other masks I tried whilst researching this feature. It's this ingredient which makes it a good choice for those with oilier skin types as the clay helps to absorb excess oils, whilst also drawing out impurities. Along with clay, Aromatherapy Associates Deep Cleanse Face Mask contains anti-bacterial lavender and ginger and mattifying silt. There's also softening almond oil and it's this ingredient which lends the mask a subtle marzipan scent.

Saturday, 11 January 2014

They say that you can tell a person's age by looking at their hands and yet, despite my strict skincare regime, I've never been very good at caring for my mitts. This year, I'm making a concerted effort to apply hand cream regularly & have already found that simply by having my hand cream in sight on my desk, as opposed to tucked away in a desk drawer, I'm more encouraged to slather it on. The hand cream that's currently jostling for space between the stapler and other stationery is Lavera Orange Feeling Hand Cream.

This affordable hand cream is made with organic orange and orange sea buckthorn oils but without parabens, mineral oil or silicone.

Lavera Orange Feeling Hand Cream is presented in very basic packaging which isn't particularly lustworthy. I'd say that it looks like something you'd see tucked away in a pharmacy, yet it is a functional tube. It's a rich cream that I initially found difficult to squeeze out of the tube although after the first couple of uses, I didn't experience any problems. Thanks to the rich formula, I really expected to hate this hand cream because I don't like products that feel greasy on my hands but I was pleasantly surprised. I was amazed at how quickly this was absorbed, without a trace of greasy residue- my hands were just left feeling conditioned and delicately scented with the uplifting aroma of sweet orange. It's a hand cream that you need to apply regularly to continue to see benefits but it's so enjoyable to use that this is hardly bothersome.

I'd recommend Lavera Orange Feeling Hand Cream and having found it for less than £5 online for a travel friendly 50ml, it's definitely worth a look.

Thursday, 9 January 2014

I've had a couple of "misses" when it comes to Korres but on the whole, I like the brand and have recently been adding a tropical hit to the cold, wintery mornings with Korres Guava Shower Gel.

I like the presentation of Korres shower gels- each scent features a different design on the bottle, all of which are equally chic and I'd be happy to have on display in my bathroom. The fliptop dispenser means that the packaging is also functional.

I've previously mentioned my disappointment at the fact that Korres include SLS in their shower gels- some people may not mind this & in fact, may appreciate the lather that it helps to create but personally, I find this cheap detergent to be drying on my skin and would prefer if it were omitted. That aside, I've enjoyed using the shower gel.

Korres Guava Shower Gel is one of the most popular products from the brand and it's easy to see why. The shower gel has a pleasant fruity, but not sickly sweet, tropical scent that it would be difficult to find fault with.

At £8 for 250ml, Korres Guava Shower Gel may be a more expensive than many body washes but it's still relatively affordable and as I particularly enjoyed the scent, I'd be happy to fork out a few extra pounds for it.

Wednesday, 8 January 2014

As I sat down to write today's post, I realised that I've unintentionally created a theme because following on from yesterday's review of the Bliss Blood Orange & White Pepper Super Scrub, today's review is of the John Masters Organics Blood Orange & Vanilla Body Wash.

John Masters Organics isn't a brand with which I'm particularly familiar but I'd heard good things so was excited to try the body wash. Best known for their line of organic hair care, John Masters Organics counts the likes of Jessica Alba, Rachel McAdams and Zooey Deschanel amongst its celebrity fans. Specifically, Alicia Silverstone has stated how much she loves the Blood Orange and Vanilla Body Wash (and seeing as she chose to star in one of my all time favourite movies, she must have good taste!).

The packaging is unassuming yet chic and I appreciated the functionality of the pump dispenser. The body wash is a clear gel and as tends to be the case with sulphate free products, doesn't create much of a lather (using it with a bath lily would help to work it into a richer lather). Whilst some people may find this to be a negative, I appreciated it because I usually find SLS laden products to be drying and irritating to my skin.

Those that feel that the lack of lather takes away from the indulgence factor will be more than compensated with the scent. The body wash has an incredible fragrance that combines zesty orange with sweet vanilla. Much like a grown-up version of orange Starburst but without the sickliness, the scent makes John Masters Organics Blood Orange & Vanilla Body Wash very enjoyable to use, particularly at this time of year. It's worth noting that the scent doesn't linger on the skin following use.

At £18 for 236ml, John Masters Organics Blood Orange & Vanilla Body Wash is undeniably pricey for a body wash. Whilst I couldn't personally justify, it would make a lovely gift and if you're looking to add a sense of indulgence to the everyday task of showering, then I'd recommend it.

Tuesday, 7 January 2014

Today's review is of the Bliss Blood Orange & White Pepper Sugar Scrub. Although I've enjoyed the products I've previously tried from Bliss, I wasn't actually expecting to like this as I prefer a satisfyingly abrasive salt scrub over a sugar based one. However, my attention was captured when I heard the tempting, gourmand inspired name and I simply couldn't resist giving it a go.

Described as a fresh & foamy body polish, Bliss Blood Orange & White Pepper Sugar Scrub is presented in a tub featuring the spa brand's signature bold font & bright design. Whilst the style of the packaging appealed to me, regular readers won't be surprised to hear that I didn't like the functionality of the tub packaging, finding it messy and unhygienic. The scrub itself has a light orange colour and a gel-like texture which I thought would lend itself particularly well to more convenient tube packaging.

My favourite aspect of Bliss Blood Orange & White Pepper Sugar Scrub was the scent- an uplifting, fresh and fruity scent which is pleasantly grown-up, without either the sickly sweetness or synthetic notes that often accompany fruity fragrances.

I needn't have worried that the sugar based scrub would be ineffective- the granules were sufficiently large and concentrated within the formula (sucrose is top of the ingredients list) to provide the satisfyingly abrasive scrub that I favour, whilst being gentle on the skin. The downside of the product, for me personally, is the inclusion of SLS which provides the "foamy" element of the scrub. Whilst the lather of the scrub arguably adds to the fresh and clean feeling, I tend to find SLS drying on my skin and for that reason, together with the fact that there is no residue (e.g. oil) left on the skin following use, I definitely needed to moisturise my skin afterwards. As with any scrub, my skin was left feeling soft and smooth.

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At £28.60 for 340g, Bliss Blood Orange & White Pepper Sugar Scrub isn't the cheapest of body scrubs but nonetheless, I enjoyed using it (perhaps unsurprising given that Bliss is owned by the same people that are behind the makers of my favourite scrubs, Soap & Glory) and would recommend it.﻿

Sunday, 5 January 2014

As is the case for many people, a new year means a fresh start for me and it's a time when my inspiration levels are high and I feel energised to embrace new ideas. For a while now I've been thinking of introducing a weekend feature here on Skin Deep- a potentially longer post than my usual ones and with more of a magazine column style format, looking at a variety of products along a selected theme which may be something timely or a generic topic. With fresh starts in mind, it seems fitting that the first instalment of The Weekend Feature is themed New Year Beauty Resolutions.

It's still not too late to turn over a new leaf and commit to a Beauty Resolution but if you're unsure of where to start, here are some ideas.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
Stuck in a hair or makeup rut? Whilst a signature look may be a comfort blanket, or even help to shape or express your identity, there's a risk that your style may become outdated (which is aging) if you don't try out something different once in a while. I'm not necessarily suggesting a drastic hair cut but perhaps consider a temporary colour change, experimenting with different up-dos for work or even something as simple as altering your parting. Alternatively, makeup is one of the easiest ways to switch up your look and after all, it's not a tattoo and is easily removable if you don't like the effect. Always wear neutrals? Brave colour by adding a slick of red lipstick, or take baby steps and inject a subtle hint of colour by switching black mascara or liner for a bolder hue.

Brush up on Hygiene
If you're on Twitter or Instagram, it's inevitable that you'll be reminded to clean your makeup brushes on a Sunday as countless beauty bloggers will be bemoaning this weekly chore. It's hardly the most glamorous of tasks but regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is essential to maintain hygiene. Makeup brush sprays are useful for spot cleaning brushes but for a really effective clean, you'll need to wash them. Personally, I aim to wash my foundation brushes once a week using affordable and readily available Baby Shampoo.

Simply pour a small amount of shampoo into the palm of your hand and swirl your brush into it before rinsing thoroughly until the water runs clear. To avoid damaging the brush, be sure to keep the ferrule (the metal part that attaches the hairs to the handle) dry as any water that gets inside can break down the glue and cause hairs to shed. Pat away any excess water, reshape the brush whilst wet and leave to dry naturally on a flat surface.

To make the job less of a chore, why not wear an indulgent face mask whilst completing the task or treat yourself to a home manicure when you're done?

Ditch the Cleansing Wipes
Regular readers will know of my dislike for cleansing wipes, although I do acknowledge their usefulness in those times when you're too tired or worse for wear to perform a full cleanse. In those instances they're undeniably handy for removing surface makeup & dirt and are better than nothing but for everyday cleansing, they simply don't provide the sufficiently effective and thorough cleanse that skin needs. I'm not alone in this opinion- ask any skincare expert for their thoughts on facial cleansing wipes and inevitably, you won't receive a positive response.

What's more, it's argued that the format encourages over-zealous rubbing of the skin and in particular, the delicate eye area. Even those wipes which profess to be gentle can prove irritating to sensitive skin. Pre-moistened cleansing cloths sitting on a shop shelf warmed by harsh instore lighting would be a breeding ground for bacteria if it weren't for the addition of strong chemicals. Furthermore, the majority of brands feature alcohol in the ingredients list which strips the skin, causing dryness. Those which are concerned with green issues may also be disturbed to note that most cleansing wipes aren't biodegradable and simply add to landfill.

Can't forgo the convenience? Swap cleansing wipes for a cleansing water (a.k.a. micellar solution) instead. These effective makeup removers have the look and feel of water but contain tiny oil droplets to dissolve makeup and leave skin conditioned. Simply apply to a cotton pad and swipe over skin before bed.

Treat Your Tresses
Heat styling and even uv rays can wreak havoc on hair yet whilst many of us care for our skin, our manes can be neglected. If you're yet to discover the benefits of hair oils, invest now. Put aside any preconceptions that they will weigh down your hair or make it appear greasy... far from it. Hair oils have been one of the biggest beauty trends of recent years, with most brands (from salon to affordable options) offering one in their product line. Their popularity is unsurprising given that they help to add shine, tame frizz & flyaways whilst locking in moisture and helping to repair and protect hair. They can even speed up the time it takes to blow dry hair.

And don't forget to indulge in a hair mask on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, depending on your hair's needs. To intensify the treatment, wrap hair in a hot towel after applying and allow the mask to penetrate (blast the towel wrap with a hairdryer if you feel that it's cooling down).

Make Time for Me Time
There are countless benefits to making time for "me time", not least de-stressing yet many fail to set aside the time to indulge. Why not diarise a regular Sunday pamper session including a long soak in the bath and a home facial?

Now, aren't those the sort of New Year Resolutions that are realistic and achievable to stick to?!

Saturday, 4 January 2014

Regular readers will know that DHC's cult Deep Cleansing Oil is one of my favourite skincare products so when the Japanese brand launches a new product, I sit up and take notice. Today's review is of the brand new Olive Body Butter, which launched this week on January 1st.

The packaging is an unassuming plastic tub presented in a flimsy cardboard box. It doesn't come across as particularly luxurious but it does have a cute Japanese cartoon quality to it.

The Body Butter has a thick balm-like texture which is solid at room temperature and as such, I found it a little difficult to scoop out of the tub. When heated between hands, it melted to a lightweight milky lotion which I found to be easily absorbed into skin. A little goes a long way.

It has a pleasant, fresh scent which reminded me of crisp, juicy apples in the tub but a feminine floral fragrance lingered delicately on the skin following application. It's worth noting that a slight residue & sheen is left on the skin's surface, although I didn't find this to be greasy or sticky.

At £15.50 for 100g, DHC Olive Body Butter is not the cheapest body butter but I have thoroughly enjoyed using it and would recommend checking it out if you're looking for something a little different to the standard body butter offerings.

Thursday, 2 January 2014

Happy New Year! Saying farewell to 2013 and welcoming in a New Year can only mean one thing on Skin Deep- it's time for the annual Skin Deep Beauty Awards, which are (somewhat unbelievably!) now in their 4th year!
As with previous years, the awards take a look at my favourite products of the year and recognise both long-standing favourites and new discoveries alike. For the Skin Deep Beauty Awards 2013, you'll notice the introduction of some new categories, making the awards an even more comprehensive view of the best in beauty. Help yourself to a glass of virtual Champagne and raise a toast to this year's winners.

HAIRCARE

BEST SHAMPOO... LA BIOSTHETIQUE

La Biosthetique Shampoos have been recognised every year in the Skin Deep Beauty Awards, testament to how much I love the products which I credit with transforming my hair. The shampoos are sufficiently gentle that they don't irritate my sensitive scalp, with my current favourite being the Dermosthetique Shampooing Actif F.

BEST CONDITIONER... LUSH AMERICAN CREAM HAIR CONDITIONER

A winner for the second year running, Lush American Cream Hair Conditioner contains fresh oranges, strawberries, vanilla and honey along with lanolin, making for a lightweight conditioner which cares for my tresses and leaves them soft & shiny without weighing down my fine hair.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST MASK... NEIL GEORGE INDIAN GOOSEBERRY INTENSE REPAIR MASK

Another winner for the second year running, this convenient, creamy mask treats hair in just a couple of minutes leaving it smooth, manageable and healthy looking.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST HAIR OIL... HEALTHY SEXY HAIR SOY RENEWAL

Winning for the third year in a row, Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Renewal has earned a place in the Skin Deep Hall of Fame. A little of this treatment oil goes a long way and a bottle usually lasts me for a year, even though I tend to wash my hair on a daily basis. It cares, helps to speed up drying time and doesn't weigh down my fine hair.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST STYLING PRODUCT... BUMBLE & BUMBLE SHINE ON FINISHING SPRAY

One of my most reached for styling products of 2013 has been the Bumble & Bumble Shine On Finishing Spray which lives up to the shine enhancing claims as well as helping to tame flyaways and leave hair delicately scented.

BEST TOOL... CORIOLISS GLAMOUR WAND

I love the attention to detail in the design of this effective curling wand, which features variable temperature control, quick heating in less than 1 minute, cool tip to protect fingers, automatic switch-off, extra long 3m cord and changeable plugs for travel.

SKINCARE

BEST CLEANSER... DHC DEEP CLEANSING OIL

A winner for the second year running, this basic cleanser is affordable yet effective, helping to melt away makeup and remove dirt and excess oils from the skin. It doesn't strip skin and has a balancing effect on oily and combination types.
Click here to read my original review.

When I first heard that one of my favourite skincare brands was introducing cleansing wipes, I have to admit that I was rather dubious. However, I've been highly impressed with the quality of these oversized wipes which are sufficiently saturated so there's no temptation to aggressively rub at skin.

BEST EYE MAKEUP REMOVER... CLARINS INSTANT EYE MAKEUP REMOVER

Specially created to quickly remove heavy or water-resistant makeup, this bi-phase eye makeup remover lives up to the instant name, effortlessly removing even the heaviest smokey eye in a matter of seconds. It's not the cheapest but it is the most effective eye makeup remover I've ever used.

BEST SERUM... CLARINS HYDRAQUENCH INTENSIVE SERUM BI-PHASE

A winner for the third year in a row, Clarins HydraQuench Intensive Serum Bi-Phase has achieved a well-earned place in the Skin Deep Hall of Fame. This hydrating serum is a must-have for dehydrated skin and it's an essential in my winter skincare routine.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST FACIAL SPRITZER... NEAL'S YARD REMEDIES WHITE TEA FACIAL MIST

I've been highly impressed with this 92% organic facial spritzer which helps to keep skin hydrated and has a calming effect on both the skin and the senses thanks to the inclusion of Bach Flower Remedies essences.

BEST FACE CREAM... LA ROCHE POSAY ROSALIAC UV LEGERE

A winner for the second year running, this lightweight cream instantly soothes inflamed and irritated skin and reduces redness without clogging pores. It works well as a base under makeup and includes SPF 15 protection.

BEST FACIAL SUNSCREEN... MOLTON BROWN KARANJA TREE SUNSHIELD SPF30

This is a new category for 2013 that recognises the importance of protecting the skin against the sun's harmful rays and I feel that Molton Brown Karanja Tree Sunshield SPF 30 is a worthy winner. Combining UVA and UVB protection, this lightweight sunscreen works effectively to protect skin from the sun's harmful rays without blocking pores.

BEST NIGHT CREAM... RODIAL GLAMTOX NIGHT

Rodial Glamtox Night wins for the third year and earns its place in the Skin Deep Hall of Fame thanks to the results driven formula of this luxurious gel-cream.

BEST EYE CREAM... KIEHL'S MIDNIGHT RECOVERY EYE

I made a concentrated effort to use eye cream religiously in 2013, something which I've previously been a little lax at. I tried a number of different eye creams and gels and whilst I found that most delivered the hydrating benefits that I'd expect, I failed to see any other noticeable benefits. That is, until I discovered Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Eye cream which left an overall improvement in the appearance of my eye area. I've already repurchased.

BEST DECONGESTING MASK... OMOROVICZA DEEP CLEANSING MASK

When I first reviewed Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask, I raved, "the best deep cleansing mask I've ever used" and over a year later, that remains the case. Despite the high price tag, this mask is a must-have in my skincare collection and it's one that I reach for whenever my skin is less than its best. It feels soothing on application, reduces redness and helps to even out skin tone whilst helping to diminish blemishes.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST HYDRATING MASK... CLARINS HYDRAQUENCH CREAM MASK

This creamy mask soothes skin whilst helping to treat dehydration. A little goes a long way and this pampering mask truly delivers results, leaving skin plumped, hydrated and with a more even tone.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST REJUVENATING MASK... GLAMGLOW TINGLING & EXFOLIATING MUD MASK

This is a new category for 2013, with GlamGlow Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask the worthy winner. Dubbed "a facial in a jar" this results driven mask lives up to the name and the claims, leaving skin with a youthful, rejuvenated glow. It's the ideal treatment before a special occasion or night out and although pricey, is worth every penny.

BEST EXFOLIATOR... HEAVEN BY DEBORAH MITCHELL SKIN POLISH EXFOLIATOR

This rediscovered favourite is a winner for the second time. Heaven by Deborah Mitchell Skin Polish Exfoliator contains Aloe Vera and Echinacea along with Glycolic Acid for an effective exfoliation without the need for harsh, physical scrubbing granules.

BEST SPOT/ ACNE TREATMENT... SALCURA ANTIAC ACNE CLEARING SPRAY

I've never heard any hype surrounding this affordable product, which is surprising because it's incredibly effective at helping to treat congested and acne-prone skin.

BEST LIP BALM... EOS

Winning for the second year in a row, these affordable, natural lip balms, which are available in a variety of tempting flavours, are presented in distinctive spherical packaging that makes them convenient and hygienic to use.

BEST SALON TREATMENT... ULTIMATE AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES FACIAL

This indulgent facial treatment uses pure plant-based skincare from one of my favourite brands along with steaming, extractions and massage to leave skin glowing and revitalised.

MAKEUP

BEST PRIMER... RIMMEL FIX & PERFECT PRIMER

A new discovery in 2013, this affordable primer is reminiscent of more expensive favourites and does everything you'd want a primer to do, without clogging pores.

BEST EYESHADOW PRIMER... URBAN DECAY EYESHADOW PRIMER POTION

A winner for the second year running, it's easy to see why this bestselling eyeshadow primer is so popular. It helps to prolong the longevity of eyeshadows, prevents creasing and helps colour to pop. I've lost count of the number of times I've repurchased it.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST SETTING SPRAY... URBAN DECAY ALL NIGHTER SETTING SPRAY

When I want to feel confident that my makeup will last all day or all night, I reach for this setting spray which lives up to its name.

BEST FOUNDATION... MAKE UP FOR EVER HD FOUNDATION

My "holy grail" foundation wins for the second year in a row. Available in a wide range of shades, this feels lightweight on the skin yet gives impressive coverage and a long-wearing, flawless finish. I panic when I'm running low and have resorted to keeping a stash of backups.

BEST BB CREAM... DR JART+ REGENERATING BEAUTY BALM

A new category for 2013 which recognises that BB Creams have been one of the biggest beauty trends of recent years. Their popularity is evidenced by the fact that most brands now offer a BB Cream within their range but one of the best I've tried is Dr Jart+ Regenerating Beauty Balm. This BB Cream offers impressive coverage, helping to disguise redness and imperfections, whilst providing the skincare benefits which BB Creams are known for, including SPF30.

BEST UNDEREYE CONCEALER... RIMMEL WAKE ME UP CONCEALER

I've tried numerous undereye concealers from a range of different brands but when I discovered the affordable Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer in 2013, I realised that nothing else had come close. The pigmented concealer means that dark undereye circles are effortlessly disguised whilst the awakening formula lends a subtle brightening effect. What's more, the tube lasts for months.

BEST BLEMISH CONCEALER... KAT VON D LOCK-IT TATTOO CONCEALER

A winner for the second year running, this high-coverage concealer blends easily and is an essential within my makeup bag for effortlessly disguising blemishes & imperfections.

BEST PRESSED POWDER... REVLON NEARLY NAKED PRESSED POWDER

Introducing a new category for 2013 and reflecting the fact that Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder transformed the way I thought about finishing powders this year. This finely milled powder is reminiscent of more expensive versions. Whilst it doesn't boast oil control properties, it does help to set makeup without looking cakey and is available in a range of shades.

BEST LOOSE POWDER... BEN NYE BANANA POWDER

Another new category for 2013 which reflects the different formats of powders. Ben Nye's cult yellow-toned powder is a worthy winner.

BEST BRONZER... NARS LAGUNA BRONZER

A winner for the second year running, this beauty blogger favourite works equally well to add a sun-kissed glow to the face as it does to contour and sculpt.

BEST POWDER BLUSH... ILLAMASQUA POWDER BLUSHER

The Best Blusher category from the previous awards has been split this year to recognise the heroes within the different formulation offerings and Illamasqua's popular blushers are the worthy winner in the powder category, with the neutral shade "Naked Rose" being one of my favourites.

BEST CREAM/ LIQUID BLUSH... MAX FACTOR MIRACLE TOUCH CREAMY BLUSHER

This new category has been created following the splitting out of the Best Blusher category. Max Factor's cream blush offering was a surprise discovery during 2013, achieving instant favourite status after the first use. In particular, I was impressed at how long-wearing the blusher is considering the creamy texture. The popular "Soft Pink" shade is the perfect, universally flattering pink.

BEST HIGHLIGHTER... BENEFIT HIGH BEAM

Benefit make my favourite highlighters and it's easy to see why the pearlescent pink High Beam is a bestseller. It adds an instant radiance and gives a lift, helping to perk up dull skin.

BEST BROW PRODUCT... TOM FORD BROW SCULPTOR

Brows have been another key trend this year- blame a certain Ms Delevigne & as such, Skin Deep has introduced a new category for 2013, with my "holy grail" Tom Ford Brow Sculptor the worthy winner. I love the attention to detail that's gone into creating this handy brow pencil, from the believable cool-toned colour of the Taupe shade, to the angle of the pencil, the built-in sharpener and spooly brush. It's eye-wateringly expensive but in my opinion, is worth the money.

BEST POWDER EYESHADOW... URBAN DECAY

A worthy winner for the second year in a row, Urban Decay's eyeshadows and specifically, their palettes have the ability to create a buzz in the beauty industry like no other, as evidenced by the surprise launch of the Naked 3 palette in 2013. It's hardly surprising given the quality of the shadows, which are pigmented yet easy to work with and blend.

One of the gems of the drugstore and a very worthy winner of the Best Cream Eyeshadow category, Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr Cream Gel Eyeshadows outperform some versions which are more than double the price. They work well worn alone or as a base under powder shadows. The colours are pigmented, with a no-crease, long-wear formula that lives up to the name. The popular "On & On Bronze" shade was one of my most-worn makeup items of 2013.

BEST PENCIL EYELINER... TOO FACED PERFECT EYES WATERPROOF EYELINER

This year, I'm splitting out the previous Best Eyeliner category to create two new categories for 2013 to represent the best in different eyeliner formulas. I discovered Too Faced Perfect Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner this year and it's one of the best eyeliners I've ever used. It's certainly the most long-wearing. The creamy, highly pigmented formula means that it's easy to apply, even on the waterline, without tugging at the delicate eye area and I appreciate the inclusion of a sponge smudger at the end of the pencil.

BEST LIQUID EYELINER... EYEKO LIQUID EYELINER PEN

Having split out the previous Best Eyeliner category to create two new categories for 2013, Eyeko wins once again thanks to the pigmented, long-wearing formula along with a felt-tip nib for effortless application whether going for a subtle effect or creating a dramatic feline flick. What's more, it lasts for a long time without drying out.

BEST MASCARA...MAYBELLINE THE FALSIES FLARED VOLUME EXPRESS MASCARA

This affordable mascara, which has a curved, natural bristle wand helps to create feminine, fluttery lashes with length and volume. What's more, I've been impressed at how well it holds a curl and despite not being waterproof, how long-wearing it is.

BEST LIPSTICK... MAC LIPSTICK

With such a wide range of colours and finishes that there's something for everyone (& who can resist that tempting vanilla fragrance?!), MAC Lipsticks are a worthy winner for the second year in a row. "Modesty", "Plumful" and the Pro-shade, "Show Orchid" have been amongst my favourites for 2013.

BEST LIP TINT... REVLON LIP BUTTER

A winner for the second year running, Revlon Lip Butters are amongst my favourites thanks to the creamy formula which effortlessly glides onto lips and feels comfortable to wear. Many of the shades are sufficiently sheer that they can be applied without a mirror, although they can be built up for a more intense look. My personal favourites include "Berry Smoothie", "Pink Truffle" and "Peach Parfait".

BEST LIP LINER... NO. 7 PRECISION LIP PENCIL

Introducing another new category for 2013, with the No 7 Precision Lip Pencil the worthy winner. With an automatic twist-up functionality and creamy formula which doesn't drag on application, these affordable lip pencils are definitely worth a look, with my favourite being the versatile "Nude" shade.

BEST LIPGLOSS... RIMMEL APOCALIPS

I've been highly impressed with the quality of these affordable, pigmented lip lacquers, which launched at the start of 2013. "Big Bang", a classic kick-ass red that boasts the same high-shine finish as the rest of the line, is a favourite.

BEST NAIL POLISH... CLINIQUE A DIFFERENT NAIL ENAMEL

I'm not usually a fan of the formula of higher end brand nail polishes but was blown away by the Clinique offering when it launched earlier this year. Specially designed for those with sensitive skin, the desirable colours apply smoothly and have impressive lasting power.

BEST TOOL... REAL TECHNIQUES BRUSHES

Real Techniques Makeup Brushes are a winner for the second year running. There can't be a beauty blogger in the land who doesn't own one of the brightly coloured brushes and their popularity isn't just down to the fact that they were created by one of us (Sam Chapman of Pixiwoo). The synthetic bristles feel super-soft on the skin, are quick-drying and I'm yet to have one of my brushes shed a single hair. They are incredibly good quality, particularly when you consider the affordable price tag.

Boasting 18 different uses, I like to use this versatile liquid soap as a shower gel to help awaken in the mornings. I love how clean it leaves my skin feeling, without any of the dryness or irritation that SLS-laden shower gels can cause.

BEST BATH SOAK...AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES BATH & SHOWER OILS

Aromatherapy Associates Bath & Shower Oils are one of my all-time favourite, can't-live-without beauty products so it's unsurprising that they're once again scooping the award for Best Bath Soak, making it a well deserved four years at the top.
Click here to read my original review of the De-Stress Muscle Oil

BEST SCRUB... SOAP & GLORY THE BREAKFAST SCRUB

Soap & Glory's affordable yet effective body scrubs are my go-to choice and this is evidenced by the fact that they've been regularly featured in the Skin Deep Beauty Awards, with the deliciously scented The Breakfast Scrub winning for the second year in a row.
Click here to read my original review

BEST BODY OIL... ELEMIS FRANGIPANI MONOI BODY OIL

This indulgent body oil, which is solid at room temperature and has to be melted before use, has been recognised every year in the Skin Deep Beauty Awards and with good reason. I love the ritualistic aspect of applying the warmed oil to my skin and the exotic fragrance is to die for.

BEST BODY MOISTURISER... DECLEOR YOUTH REVEALING BODY CREAM

I've been impressed with this luxurious cream which is rich enough to nourish skin, without leaving a greasy or sticky residue.

BEST SUNCARE... LANCASTER

Lancaster has been recognised every year in the Skin Deep Beauty Awards because I know that I can trust the products to protect my skin in the sun.

BEST AFTERSUN... HAWAIIAN TROPIC SILK HYDRATION AFTER SUN

Best Aftersun is a new category for 2013, with the winning product being the wallet friendly Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration After Sun. Combining ribbons of hydrating lotion with soothing aloe vera gel, this works wonders on sun parched skin.

BEST FAKE TAN... XEN-TAN MOROCCAN TAN

Celebrity favourite Xen-Tan's Morrocan Tan is recognised for the first time this year. Easy to apply thanks to a handy guide colour, I've been highly impressed with the deep yet believable colour which this fake tan gives.

Best Gradual Tan is a new category for 2013, recognising the popularity of these products, particularly amongst those who are fearful of fake tanning disasters. I've tried a number of good gradual tanners but Palmer's Natural Bronze is the worthy winner as it delivers a realistic colour at a wallet friendly price. This is one of the best value for money products I've come across this year.

BEST INSTANT COLOUR... THIS WORKS PERFECT LEGS SKIN MIRACLE

Another new category for 2013 & this one may have something to do with our increasingly dismal British summers! This Works Perfect Legs Skin Miracle adds an instant hint of colour- nothing dramatic, but a helping hand for pasty limbs- whilst the high quality ingredients treat skin to improve legs' overall appearance.

A winter essential that's a bestseller for good reason. The scent of The Body Shop Hemp Hand Protector may not be to everyone's liking but it's worth putting up with because the results are remarkable, with the rich cream helping to soothe and heal even the driest, chapped hands in a matter of days.

BEST TOOL/ ACCESSORY... BOURJOIS MAGIC NAIL POLISH REMOVER

The format of this handy nail polish remover, presented as a tub containing a sponge which is saturated with the polish removing solution, isn't anything new but it is the best version I've tried. The acetone-free formula makes light work of polish removal whilst caring for nails and leaves behind a tempting vanilla & red fruit fragrance. It's also a good choice for those who like to experiment with nail art as one nail's polish can be removed without a cotton pad removing polish from other nails. It's no wonder that this has become a beauty blogger favourite- it's certainly one of my favourite discoveries of the year.
Click here to read my original review.

BEST SALON TREATMENT... STRIP WAXING

Winning for the third year running and earning a place in the Skin Deep Hall of Fame to go alongside their place in my London address book, Strip offer the best Brazilians in the capital and somehow manage to make this beauty chore bearable.

FRAGRANCE

BEST FRAGRANCE (WOMEN'S)... GUERLAIN SHALIMAR PARFUM INITIAL

A winner for the third year in a row (having been previously recognised in the Best New Launch category), this updated version of the classic Shalimar is a sophisticated and sensual floral chypre featuring notes of bergamot, rose, jasmine, patchouli, vetiver, Tonka bean and Guerlain's signature vanilla, beautifully presented.

BEST NEW LAUNCH... PENHALIGON'S IRIS PRIMA EAU DE PARFUM

The Best New Launch award this year goes to Penhaligon's Iris Prima Eau de Parfum, a sophisticated and elegant fragrance inspired by prima ballerinas and created in partnership with the English National Ballet. It's a worthy winner because every aspect of the fragrance has been well thought out, from the unique concept and story behind the fragrance, to the uber desirable packaging and of course, the fragrance itself. This woodsy floral has top notes of bergamot and pink pepper, a heart composed of iris absolute and jasmine sambac with base notes of leather, vanilla, sandalwood, vetiver and benzoin.

BEST HOME FRAGRANCE... NEOM ORGANICS CANDLES

Neom's luxury candles have been recognised every year in the Skin Deep Beauty Awards. The large glass jars with 3-wicks are a chic addition to any room whilst the fragrances are not only indulgent but also offer truly effective therapeutic benefits thanks to a high concentration of good quality pure essential oils. The "Real Luxury" fragrance is a favourite.

Finally, I'd like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Skin Deep in 2013. At the risk of "doing a Gwyneth", special thanks go to my fabulous blog designer, Faye, who (patiently!) did a wonderful job of redesigning Skin Deep's layout early in the year; the various brands and PRs who have kept me informed of the latest beauty launches and last but by no means least, readers of Skin Deep & subscribers of my YouTube channel. I've thoroughly enjoyed sharing my beauty discoveries with you during 2013 and look forward to an exciting 2014. Wishing you all a very Happy New Year!